Nigeria’s image on the global stage received another boost on Saturday, September 20, 2025, as Jovan Olafioye, son of Dr. Salewa Olafioye, a former United Nations diplomat, was officially inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame.
The colourful induction ceremony took place at Hamilton Stadium in Toronto, Canada, where Olafioye was honoured alongside other members of the Canadian Football League’s (CFL) 2025 class. His recognition is historic, as he becomes only the second Nigerian to be admitted into the Hall of Fame in its 60-year history, after Solomon Elimimian.
Olafioye, fondly called “Sugar Bear,” built a glittering career with the BC Lions after joining the team in 2010. He won the Grey Cup in 2011 and went on to earn seven consecutive Western Division All-Star honours. He was also a six-time CFL All-Star and, in 2012, was named the league’s Most Outstanding Offensive Lineman.
A durable and consistent figure, Olafioye never missed a game in eight seasons, featuring in 153 matches and helping the Lions remain one of the best-protected teams in the league during his era. He also had a brief spell with the Montreal Alouettes before retiring in 2018.
Speaking after his induction, Olafioye expressed pride in his Nigerian roots. “I am proud of my Nigerian heritage and the values of discipline and resilience that shaped me. When I was young, my father took me to Lagos, where we spent two years while he served the Federal Government as a United Nations consultant on HIV/AIDS. Those years left a lasting impression on me, and I carry that Nigerian spirit with me everywhere I go,” he said.
The family hails from Igbotako in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State, Nigeria, while his mother, Mrs. Shawn Renne Olafioye, is from Detroit, Michigan, USA. His father, Dr. Salewa Olafioye, currently serves as the President of Better Nigeria Global and Chairman of the Nigeria Diaspora Think Tank.
